Washington ~ The first day of the federal government shutdown saw Republicans and Democrats locked in a bitter blame game while the impact was felt across the country, with iconic tourist landmarks — from the Liberty Bell in Pennsylvania to Pearl Harbor in Hawaii — shuttered to the public.

The closures underscored the growing disruption of the shutdown, which is already threatening hundreds of thousands of jobs and critical services nationwide.

Among the most visible effects was the closure of several historic and cultural attractions that symbolize America’s national identity.

The Liberty Bell in Philadelphia , a symbol of independence, halted tours.

The Gateway Arch in St. Louis and the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston closed to visitors.

The Pearl Ha

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